As the school year quickly comes to an end, it's easy for high school students to want to shut down and relax through the summer. While rest and relaxation is important, summer is also a great time to focus on those activities that are unavailable during the school year. This doesn't mean spending the entire summer lying out at the pool or crawling the mall. Instead, students need to look for opportunities that will enhance their passions.
With less than a month of school to go, students should take the opportunity to visit their high school counselor to see what opportunities are available for the summer. This can range from part-time jobs, internships, enrichment camps, volunteer positions, drivers ed or even academic courses.
For students who are behind in credits, failed courses, or want to get ahead on classes, summer is a great time to get these out of the way. In most schools, as well as all Wake County Public Schools, summer school courses are site-based. Opportunities to make up failed courses are most prevalent, as well as driver's ed, however, many schools, offer "first impulse" courses, or courses to get ahead in the curriculum. Students need to look at their individual school's website for additional information.
Summer jobs are a great way for students to discover what fields of work they may be interested in. It's also a good way for students to demonstrate responsibility and commitment, particularly if they continue with the job throughout the school year. The tight economy may make jobs scarce, however, volunteering in a position, albeit no pay, has the same benefits. Most college admissions counselors will tell you that they look favorably on students that demonstrate the ability to maintain a job.
Aside from working or taking class, students can also use this time to explore new things. Taking an enrichment class or interning with a business allows students to experience things they may not have time for during the year. Seeking out learning opportunities in areas that students are passionate about also demonstrates a commitment to that interest.
Remember, learning is a year long process. Students need to demonstrate that they are committed to learning all the time. While summer is a time to relax and have fun, it doesn't preclude you from trying new things and learning while in the process!
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